3D software: most useful programs in 2023-2024

3D modeling is a vast field of activity that includes many areas related to the creation of three-dimensional models, as well as their texturing and animation.

Programs that allow you to model objects and characters are used not only in the game industry, but also in the field of film production, design, industry, architecture and even medicine.

Actually, this is the reason why they have such a huge popularity, which is growing every year.

In this article we have collected the most interesting, in our humble opinion, utilities for working with 3D. There will be both classic software, which has already proven its effectiveness many times, and more niche and non-obvious options.

Autodesk Maya 3D

This tool is mainly used by professionals. There are a lot of plug-ins for character animation.

With Autodesk Maya 3D, you can create fantastic creatures, picturesque landscapes, and even large-scale and extremely spectacular sketches. For example, you can easily create a realistic ocean wave or recreate the full movement of hair in the wind.

These are just two examples. The only limit is your imagination.

The downside is that the program is paid and you either have to create your own models for work or look for them somewhere on the Internet.

The good news is that we've put together a huge collection of 3D content for you that is fully compatible with Maya. This includes not only various meshes, but also additional plugins that will make your work much easier.

3ds Max

3ds Max is very similar to Autodesk Maya. They have the same publisher, so the functionality and tools are similar. Autodesk Inc. explains the differences this way: 3ds Max is for designing and creating architectural models, while Maya is for 3D animation.

However, architects are not the only ones using the program. There are also opportunities for visualization, working with animation, creating scenes for games, full-fledged worlds and movies.

And 3ds Max also has a 3D rendering function.

NVIDIA Holodeck

NVIDIA Holodeck allows you to collaboratively create and analyze designs in a physically correct, highly realistic virtual environment.

And that is the local killer feature of this utility.

With its realistic graphics, physically correct modeling, and support for collaboration, Holodeck is actively used as a productive design lab for AI modules.

And that is its second killer feature.
The functionality of the program is wide, but it is completely sharpened for use with virtual and augmented reality technologies.

MeshMagic 3D

MeshMagic 3D is a free program available for Windows. It is relevant for 3D rendering, creation of two-dimensional models and their subsequent conversion into three-dimensional objects. It is very convenient for building geometrically correct figures: polyhedrons, cubes, cones, spheres.

The local interface is simple and does not cause difficulties in mastering.

Vectary

Vectary is a browser-based mesh and multi-parameter modeling software.

In general, Vectary can be called the most digestible option for beginners of all the above.
This software is rendering-oriented - it's intended for amateurs and professionals in the field of graphic design, product design and game design, but its applications don't end there.

Using Vectary tools requires only basic knowledge. The interface is simple, but gives you a lot of power. You can also use Vectary's set of preset typographies and ready-made models. Keep in mind, though, that many of them are commercial.